By Paul Rachwal
Monday, Jul 23rd, 2012 @ 11:09 am
 
We already knew there won't be a 2013 Sedona minivan from Kia, but now there's news that when it returns for 2014, it will be based on the KV7 concept. That concept made its debut at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

"The minivan segment has been and will continue to be important to Kia," company spokesperson James Hope told Inside Line. What's more, the current 2012 Sedona will continue to be stocked at dealerships throughout 2012, and production of the next generation minivan will resume in 2013.

The minivan market has seen many players drop out in recent years, with Ford and GM not currently offering one at this time, opting instead for less conventional people carriers in the form of crossovers or SUVs.

The KV7 had a few features that are likely to remain on the concept and never reach production, including a set of gullwing rear doors and 360-degree swiveling seats.

Sales of the Sedona have dropped since 2011 to date in the U.S. as of July 3, with 10,612 finding buyers compared to 11,006. Compared to rivals, it's known to be heavy and thirsty, though it does offer good value.